BILLY Vunipola is determined to follow in the footsteps of brother Mako and cousin Taulupe Faletau by becoming a Lion next summer, writes Chris Kirwan.

The Pontypool-raised powerhouse number eight is currently recovering from a fractured arm but with the aim of hitting the ground running when the green light is given for rugby to return after coronavirus.

The 27-year-old has been plagued by injury misfortune in recent seasons and a shoulder issue denied him the chance to take on New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions in 2017.

He watched on as prop Mako and back row forward Faletau, who also faced Australia in 2013, impressed against the All Blacks, so pulling on the famous red jersey is a major aim for next year.

Warren Gatland will take the Lions to South Africa and Vunipola, who was named in the squad before injury three years ago, is hungry to take on the world champion Springboks.

South Wales Argus:

"I need to play for England first, to put myself in the shop window to play for the Lions. I have to show I'm good enough," he said to the Daily Mail.

"It's going to be massive and there's so much competition. It's definitely something I'm very keen on doing."

Vunipola will be playing Championship rugby with Sarries next season, which should ensure he is well rested for Test duty.

He has established himself as a key figure in Eddie Jones' England team but knows he can't rest on his laurels, especially after the coach's warning to his squad.

After extending his contract the Australian said that there could be a 60 per cent turnover before France 2023.

"I've now got another three-plus years to be within that 40 per cent,' said Vunipola.

"That's another way of him challenging the boys not to let up.

"Everyone needs to take heed of his messages and make sure you aren't the guy who gets cut."